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National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day

Satisfy your sweet tooth with some gooey, fruity confectionery or make the classic recipe even more of a treat by adding extras such as marzipan.

Chocolate Food & Drink Fruit62

Marketing angleinferred

Drive January confectionery sales and gifting by positioning chocolate-covered cherries as a post-holiday indulgence and a thoughtful treat for coworkers and loved ones.

Relevance 62high intent

Share DIY chocolate-covered cherry recipes and tutorials to engage home bakers
Highlight Cella's heritage and 95-year legacy as a premium, iconic American candy brand
Create gift guides positioning chocolate-covered cherries as affordable, elegant office or personal gifts
Run limited-time promotions on premium and artisanal chocolate-covered cherry varieties

History

Chocolate covered cherries were introduced in the United States by Cella’s Confections in New York in 1929 and were an immediate hit, quickly becoming famous the world over.

Years later, in 1985, Cella’s Confections was bought from the Masarik Family by Tootsie Roll, though the family is still part owners of the product.

Today, almost a century after they were made for the first time, Cella’s chocolate covered cherries are famous the world over for their liquid center and extra gooey taste. And National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day was founded with the purpose of appreciating and enjoying this delightful treat!

How to celebrate

Enjoy Eating Chocolate Covered Cherries

Head over to a candy maker or confectioner and pick up a box of chocolate covered cherries to enjoy and share. Or, for those who received them as a gift for the Christmas holidays, this is just the time to eat them!

Gift Some Chocolate Covered Cherries

Know a friend, family member or coworkers who is a huge fan of this delicious little confection? This is the perfect day to give a nod to their love for this treat by gifting them with a little (or big!) box that they can dive into.

Try Making Chocolate Covered Cherries

One other way to celebrate National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day, at least for those with a culinary bent, might be to make your own chocolate-covered cherries. Over the years since the first chocolate-covered cherries appeared at Cella’s, there have been tens if not hundreds of recipes for the sweet, each just a little different, but each unique.

FAQ

How did chocolate-covered cherries become associated with French and English holiday traditions?

In the 1700s, the French made griottes by dipping sour cherries in kirsch (cherry brandy) and chocolate. Meanwhile, the English created cherry cordials by soaking cherries in brandy before covering them in chocolate. These treats were holiday indulgences enjoyed after feasts to settle the stomach, a tradition that became a festive favorite in both countries.

Is there a unique Japanese twist on chocolate-covered cherries?

Yes, Japan adds a seasonal touch to these treats with sakura (cherry blossom) flavors during spring. Some Japanese confections feature chocolate-covered cherries infused with sakura essence, giving a floral note. This twist is especially popular during cherry blossom festivals and spring gift exchanges, blending Japanese aesthetics with Western flavors.

Why are some chocolate-covered cherries liquid-filled, while others are solid?

The liquid-filled variety often uses an enzyme called invertase, which gradually converts sugar into a syrup around the cherry after it’s dipped in chocolate. This process, developed for mass production, contrasts with older methods using whole cherries and solid sugar coatings, which do not dissolve.

Did Prohibition affect chocolate-covered cherries in the U.S.?

Yes! Prohibition led to the removal of alcohol in many U.S. confections, including cherry cordials. Producers swapped cherry liqueur with sugary syrup, which birthed the modern, non-alcoholic chocolate-covered cherry we know today. This allowed the treat to remain popular across all ages.

Are there health benefits associated with chocolate-covered cherries?

Surprisingly, yes. Dark chocolate and cherries both contain antioxidants, which support heart health and may reduce inflammation. Dark chocolate-covered cherries also offer a sweet treat that’s relatively rich in vitamins A and C, plus potassium—good news for sweet lovers with a health-conscious edge.

How are chocolate-covered cherries used in holiday traditions in the U.S.?

In the U.S., chocolate-covered cherries are often enjoyed as a seasonal gift or festive dessert. Families sometimes include them in holiday candy spreads, while others save them for a “chocolate and cordial” nightcap after large meals, echoing historical practices from Europe.

What’s the story behind “chocolate cherry mice”?

Chocolate cherry mice are a popular holiday craft treat in the U.S. These fun creations involve maraschino cherries with stems for tails, which are dipped in chocolate and paired with chocolate kisses for heads. Almond slices serve as “ears,” making for a whimsical treat enjoyed around Christmas and Valentine’s Day.

Did chocolate-covered cherries have any medicinal reputation historically?

Yes, they did! Early cherry cordials were thought to be “cordial” to the heart, hence their name. Cherries in liqueur were viewed as a digestive aid, meant to be consumed after a heavy meal. This belief persisted for centuries, adding a medicinal twist to their enjoyment.

Are there any myths or superstitions tied to chocolate-covered cherries?

Some believe that sharing a chocolate-covered cherry with a loved one strengthens bonds, stemming from the treat’s romantic reputation. This myth may stem from the alluring red of cherries and the decadent, rich appeal of chocolate, making it a Valentine’s staple for couples.

How do other countries celebrate National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day?

While the holiday is largely American, similar celebrations occur worldwide. In France, griottes are enjoyed in winter markets, while in Italy, small chocolate-covered fruit stalls include cherries as a seasonal delicacy. These traditions reflect the international love for cherry and chocolate combinations.